Pokies law’s racy feel in the Den

A POKIES shake-up has seen two Pakenham sporting icons unite.
After two years of negotiations, the Pakenham Racing Club and the Pakenham Sports Club signed a management agreement on Monday.
The agreement will see the Racing Club take over the management and administration of the Lions Den and its electronic gaming machines (EGM).
Steve Maloney, chairman of the Pakenham Sports Club, said the new pokies legislation acted as a catalyst for the two clubs to begin talks nearly two years ago. “The merits were seen in combining the resources of both clubs for the greater benefit of members,” Mr Maloney said.
“We welcome the opportunity to work with the Cardinia Club to further provide for our sporting clubs and the community.”
Pakenham Racing Club chairman Don Duffy said the takeover of the management rights of the Pakenham Sports Club was a natural extension of the club’s gaming activities.
He said the racing club was well placed to extract savings and efficiencies by utilising resources available through the Cardinia Club.
“Being two of the longer established clubs in the shire, it is a great fit and a win win for both clubs,” Mr Duffy said.
“We look forward to a very successful and long term partnership.”
Both men said there would be no obvious changes to the Lions Den, the same faces would be working there – the only changes would be back of house. – Melissa Meehan